Campari  to offload Amaro Averna and Zedda Piras to Illva Saronno

Campari Group has entered into an agreement to divest two of its Italian liqueur brands Amaro Averna and Zedda Piras to Illva Saronno Holding S.p.A. in a deal valued at €100 million (approximately US$117 million). The transaction marks another step in Campari’s ongoing portfolio optimisation strategy, focusing on sharpening its core global priorities.

Illva Saronno, best known internationally for Disaronno and Tia Maria, will add the historic Sicilian amaro Averna and the Sardinian myrtle liqueur Zedda Piras to its expanding wines and spirits portfolio. Founded in 1868, Amaro Averna is one of Italy’s most recognised amari, with around 70 percent of its sales generated from international markets, particularly the US, Germany and Austria. Zedda Piras, established in the 19th century, remains strongly rooted in the Italian market.

Marco Ferrari, CEO Illva Saronno Holding S.p.A. said, “The acquisition of Amaro Averna and Zedda Piras is another step towards strengthening our role as a Global Spirits player. With their recognized quality and heritage, the two brands are a great addition to our international portfolio, and they will significantly reinforce our position in three of our priority markets (US, Germany and Italy).”

 Simon Hunt, CEO Campari Group, added, “The sale of Averna and Zedda Piras is another important step in our portfolio streamlining strategy, aimed at refocusing on fewer bigger bets, while supporting further deleverage, as we outlined during our Capital Markets Day.”

The acquisition aligns with Illva Saronno’s long-term growth strategy, building on previous investments such as Tia Maria in 2009, Sagamore Rye Whiskey in 2023 and Engine Gin in 2024. With annual revenues of about €400 million and operations spanning more than 160 countries, the group continues to strengthen its position as a global premium spirits player.

The closing of the transaction is expected during the first half of 2026.